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DC Caribbean Carnival

By Guest
Posts: 1

Posted on: August 22, 2009 at 10:42AM

If you love Trinidad & Tobago or Rio Carnival, or even Mardi Gras in New Orleans, but can't get to any of these destinations soon, don't worry, because the Caribbean brings Carnival to you in Washington, D.C. For the past 17 years at the end of June, Washingtonians have been able to enjoy the culture and some of the traditions of the Caribbean islands by experiencing Carnival in Washington, D.C. The starting point of the parade of bands is at Missouri & Georgia Avenues, N.W. and they all end at Banneker field near Howard University. You can get a good idea of what it's like to "play mas" in the islands, as masqueraders go all out showcasing their brightly coloured costumes and high energy to represent their various islands' own interpretation of Carnival. You also get to enjoy music from the islands, like calypso, soca, steelpan and reggae, as they blast from enormous speakers that are stacked on top of 18-wheeler trucks as they drive slowly down Georgia Avenue in Washington D.C. If that's not enough a lot of nightclubs and bars in Washington, D.C. host Caribbean parties during that weekend, so you can supplement your enjoyment at any one of them as well. Handmade arts and crafts from the Caribbean are also available and there's a lot to choose from. Most importantly, you can sample Caribbean cuisine which varies from island to island. For example, you can try creole and curry dishes from Trinidad and Tobago, and jerk chicken and rice and peas from Jamaica. Whichever you choose, be wary for the "spice" that these foods are usually prepared with. Ask for "pepper sauce" on the side if your tastebuds are sensitive to spicy fare. The Carnival is free to all spectators, but if you want to get a good view of the masqueraders, be sure to get to Gerogia Avenue early enough to claim your prime spot. The Carnival usually starts around noon and is over by 6:00 p.m. and is well attended by many thousands of spectators. If you would like to "play mas" in one of the bands, anyone can do so, for a fee which is determined by which band you choose. The Caribbean Association in Washington, D.C. will have all of the information you need. All in all, DC Carnival makes for a fun family day and is an opportunity to bring different nationalities together for some fun in the sun.
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